Press release
University and Courier team up to host hustings
Published on 12 June 2024
The University of Dundee is collaborating with The Courier to support democratic engagement across the local community by hosting a hustings event in the run up to the general election
Candidates standing for the UK’s four largest parties in the Dundee Central constituency will face the public at the University’s Dalhousie Building from 6pm on Wednesday 26June. The hustings are free to attend and open to all.
The participating candidates are:
- Daniel Coleman (Liberal Democrats)
- Emma Farquhar (Conservative)
- Chris Law (Scottish National Party)
- Richard McCready (Labour)
The hustings will be chaired by Courier Political Journalist Alasdair Clark, who will grill candidates on voters’ priorities and the policies contained in their party manifestos, as well as issues of concern to the higher education sector. There will also be an opportunity for audience members to ask questions of those vying for their votes.
Professor Iain Gillespie, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Dundee, said the hustings were an important part of the University’s efforts to promote participation in the election.
“We want to make sure that the people of Dundee are able to make an informed choice when they enter the ballot box, as voters holding candidates to account is a vital part of the democratic process,” he said,
“Universities have an important role to play in that process by stimulating debate, creating the knowledge that drives policy and ensuring that our student and local communities are engaged.
“We have also been working closely with Dundee University Students’ Association (DUSA) to encourage our students to register to vote while our researchers have bringing their expert views to bear on the key issues of the election campaign so far. The hustings, which we are delighted to partner with The Courier to host, are another way that we can contribute.”
David Clegg, editor of The Courier, said, “The Courier is excited to be working with the University of Dundee on this hustings, and we hope it will allow voters to put their questions to those competing for their vote directly.
“Our reporter will also put the candidates under the microscope on the issues that matter most to the communities we serve.”
The University of Dundee hustings take place at the Dalhousie Building from 6pm on Wednesday 26 June and will be followed by a drinks reception. Places can be reserved via Eventbrite.